TAMIKA Mkandawire is delighted to be back alongside Tony James in the heart of Hereford United's defence.

The compatible couple are likely to hold the fort at Edgar Street tomorrow as the Bulls host Alfreton Town in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round.

James and Mkandawire have resumed their central-defensive partnership in recent weeks, helping post shut-outs against Burton Albion and at Mansfield Town on Tuesday evening in the LDV Vans Trophy.

Both players forged an excellent understanding last term, when Hereford conceded less than a goal a game in the Conference, and it led to tough-tackling Mkandawire earning the player-of-the-season award.

This season, director of football Graham Turner has alternated his defensive pack, with summer signing Dean Beckwith and loanee Darren Blewitt figuring prominently.

But since sticking to a 4-4-2 system, Turner has reverted to Mkandawire and captain James.

"It's good to be playing alongside Tony," said former West Brom man Mkandawire. "When I first came to the club on loan, we were partnered together and I always work well with him. He's a good player with lots of experience.

"We've kept a couple of clean sheets and we're playing well. I'm quite happy with my own form after recently getting back in the side. I want to maintain my place in the side, do as well as I can and perhaps score a few goals."

Alfreton enter the cup clash in dismal form, having picked up 10 points from 11 games as they lie in the bottom five of Nationwide North. But Mkandawire, 22, admits the Bulls will treat their visitors, who disposed of Whitby Town and St Helens Town in previous rounds, with the utmost respect.

He added: "Alfreton are no mugs. They are quite a decent side and have won a couple of games already in the FA Cup. We'll be taking them as seriously as we did Mansfield in the LDV Vans. That was one of our better performances, but I think there's a lot more to come from us."

After earning a recall at Field Mill, goalkeeper Craig Mawson should retain his place as on-loan Wayne Brown has been made unavailable by his club, as has striker Matt Bailey.

With Danny Carey-Bertram still a doubt, young striker Andy Williams could be in line for his second successive start, although Guy Ipoua may figure.

Alfreton's line-up will include midfielder Mark Turner, son of the Edgar Street chief.